Testing for Allergies: Which Allergy Test is the Best?

In a very recent study looking at the prevalence, diagnosis, and management of food allergies, it found that “the evidence for the prevalence and management of food allergy is greatlylimited by a lack of uniformity for criteria for making a diagnosis.”1 Interestingly, the study also stated that there is not a universally accepted definition of food allergy!1

There are several food allergy tests out there to make a diagnosis of a food allergy. It can be difficult sometimes to determine which one will help get the most accurate diagnosis for you or your little one. Today we will cover what the most common tests are and how they work.

The most common allergy diagnosis tests are skin prick testing, total serum (blood) IgE testing, and atopic patch testing. An oral food challenge is also an effective test for food allergy diagnosis, but it has its limitations.

Here is a list of how each test works and some of the advantages and disadvantages of each one. Some of these tests can be less accurate in young children, so remember to talk with your doctor about which option(s) is best for your child.

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